2022 WJC Take 2
Posted: Mon Aug 08, 2022 4:09 am
Looks like the only Blues prospect competing is Leo Loof. Others backed out in favor of off-season workouts.
USA lost to Chechia (Czech Republic) 4-2 (last goal was empty net) in the Quarterfinals. Pre-Tournament, it was a foregone conclusion USA would be in the Final due to their team speed, which was the fastest in the tournament. Instead, they get nothing and go home. This just shows that speed doesn't always triumph over good structure and sound defensive play. Yes, Chechia had a 5 minute major - on which they didn't score, but USA got one also and did score. USA goalie gave up one really bad goal that he just flat out missed which turned out to be the difference in the game. USA not scoring was surprising given their talent and speed. But - Chechia's sound structure and consistent play won out.
I could see Chechia upsetting Canada with how they are playing and the fact when Bedard is on the ice, Canada flat out sucks defensively. As good as Connor Bedard is offensively, he's purely a one-way forward right now. They gave up 3 goals to Switzerland and all 3 were with Bedard on the ice. MacTavish, on the other hand, is doing everything right at both ends and still scores goals and adds in assists. Of course, Bedard is super young for this tournament, so it's a norm for a young forward who hasn't had to be a 2-way forward.